Bills & cost of living hub

Start where the money is

Household bills are easier to cut than most people think, and a couple of hours spread over a year can save hundreds of pounds. The biggest wins usually come from the bills you set and forget: energy, broadband and mobile. Tackle those first, because that is where loyalty quietly costs you the most.

Energy: the biggest lever

Energy is the largest variable bill in most homes. If you are on a standard variable tariff, you are probably overpaying. Compare on total annual cost, and cut usage where heating and hot water dominate the bill. Start with our switching guide and compare energy deals.

Broadband and mobile: stop paying loyalty tax

Both are notorious for charging long-standing customers more than new ones. Once you are out of contract, prices often jump. Set a reminder for when your minimum term ends, then switch or renegotiate.

• Compare broadband once your contract is up, and check whether full fibre has reached your street.
• If you own your phone, a SIM-only plan is usually far cheaper than staying on an old bundled contract.

Build a simple routine

• Diary your contract end dates for energy, broadband and mobile so you never auto-renew at a worse rate.
• Check usage, not just price. A smart meter and a quick speed test show whether you are paying for more than you use.
• Compare before you renew, every time. Ten minutes is often worth a three-figure saving.

Tools to help

Use our calculators and checkers to put real numbers on your situation, such as the energy savings calculator and a broadband speed test, then act on what they show.

The bottom line

Treat your set-and-forget bills as the place to win. Diary your renewal dates, compare on total cost, and use less where you can. Done once a year across energy, broadband and mobile, it is one of the best returns on an hour of your time you will find.